What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW it is likely that your key fob is equipped with numerous functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including opening your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are some tricks that you may not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, some are unique. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This feature is a great security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first push the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in a situation where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
Finally lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. For those who have hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. For this reason, it's recommended to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a solution can be provided that will deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were large, clunky rectangles of black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like an opener for keys. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could get into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hands. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels. You can see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished five times, by turning the key from position one to position zero and back. Then, turn the key to zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob get more info is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and then start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition, the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being transported. The system also uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does not remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is available in all models of the brand and gives you security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in a single second. In some instances it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then turn on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase a spare one for a family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW, first make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Also, close the doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and then back again. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a key fob that does not have one. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metal key inside will need to be put into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in working condition. If you're in search of a new BMW key fob, or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.